A Path Back to Power Sharing
Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton Harris has announced a new deal aimed at restoring power-sharing in the province. The deal, negotiated with the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), addresses concerns over a customs border in the Irish Sea that caused the party to withdraw from the Stormont Assembly.
Reduced Checks on Goods
The 60-page deal, titled "Safeguarding The Union," promises to eliminate routine post-Brexit checks on 80% of goods shipped from Great Britain to final destinations in Northern Ireland. Checks will still be required for goods heading to the European Union via the land border with the Republic of Ireland. The UK authorities will conduct checks based on a "risk-based approach" to address criminality, smuggling, and disease risks.
Ending the Irish Sea Trading Border
The new agreement, known as the "UK internal market system," will govern the movement of goods within the United Kingdom without entering the EU through Ireland. This has convinced the DUP to end their two-year boycott of the Northern Irish Assembly. DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson expressed satisfaction with the deal, stating that it removes the Irish Sea trading border and ensures goods manufactured in Northern Ireland can be sold in the rest of the UK.
Prospects for a Brighter Future
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak praised the restored power-sharing in Northern Ireland, emphasizing the potential for a "brighter future." He highlighted the prospect of a strengthened union and accountable local government for the people of Northern Ireland. The Stormont Assembly could reconvene as early as Saturday.
Overall, the new deal aims to reduce EU checks on goods flowing to Northern Ireland, while addressing concerns over the Irish Sea trading border. By eliminating routine checks on the majority of goods, the agreement seeks to restore power-sharing and provide a brighter future for Northern Ireland.
Did you miss our previous article…
https://hellofaread.com/politics/labour-led-councils-prioritize-foreign-nationals-for-social-housing-new-data-reveals/
